Patient Info
OB Patient Information
It is our goal to assist you in attaining a healthy pregnancy. It will also let you know the timetable to specific tests we will perform during the next few months.
First Visit
Blood work: OB panel that consists of blood type, antibody screen, rubella titer, serology, hepatitis antigen, CBC
Second Visit
Urine Culture
14 Weeks
Discuss genetic amniocentesis if you are over 35 years old.
16 Weeks (optional)
Please talk with your physician or nurse regarding the Alpha Fetoprotein test, a blood test for neural tube defect – Downs Syndrome.
20 Weeks
A sonogram is usually performed around this time.
24 Weeks
Blood test for diabetes.
28 Weeks
If your blood type is RH negative – blood test for RH antibody screen and Rhogam injection
Start fetal movement record.
32 Weeks
Blood test for anemia and serology.
35 Weeks
Group B Strep cervical culture.
36 Weeks
Pelvic check for dilation.
Office visits
You will see the doctor monthly until 28 weeks, twice monthly until 36 weeks, then weekly until delivery. You will rotate at least once with each physician so that you will have the opportunity to meet them in case they are on call when you come in for delivery.
Note: If you are hypertensive, diabetic or have other medical problems, you may have a non-stress test weekly, late in the pregnancy. Other tests may be necessary depending on your health status.
The below information can be used as a quick reference to questions you might have.
Breasts
The breasts begin to enlarge in preparation for lactation and may be tender and even begin leaking.
Relief Measures: Wear a good support bra. You may find it more comfortable to wear it
while sleeping. Your bra should have wide non-elastic straps to provide good support.
Wear nursing pads for leaking that are not plastic lined.
Leg Cramps
These are generally due to pressure of the enlarged uterus on the circulation of the extremities. They can also be due to the fact that calcium is less easily absorbed during pregnancy. They may occur anytime but especially during the last three months. Cramps are not a serious condition but can be very painful.
Relief Measures: Elevate legs frequently during the day. Use a heating pad or hot water
bottle for relief. Point toes upward and press down on the kneecap or hold the back of a
chair and slide the foot of the cramping leg as far back as you can, keeping the heel flat.
This stretches the calf muscle and helps relieve the cramp. Increase calcium in your diet.
If unable to get adequate calcium from food sources, ask your physician about calcium
substitutes.
Medications
It is very important during your pregnancy to only take medication prescribed by your physician. There are certain medications that you may take at any time during your pregnancy without consulting our office for reasons such as headache, cold symptoms, nausea, constipation, indigestion or yeast infection. Discuss these with your physician or nurse during your visit.
Morning Sickness
To prevent morning sickness, try the following suggestions until you find one that works for you:
Eat a piece of bread or a few crackers before you get out of bed in the morning (put them close your bed the night before), or when you feel nauseated.
Get out of bed slowly. Avoid sudden movements.
Have some yogurt, cottage cheese, juice or milk before you go to bed, or before you get up.
Try one of these if you have to get up during the night:
Eat several small meals during the day so your stomach doesn’t remain empty for very long.
Eat high protein foods (i.e. eggs, cheese, nuts, meats, etc.) as well as fruits and fruit juices. These foods help prevent abnormal levels of sugar in your blood, which can also cause nausea.
Drink soups and other liquids between meals instead of with meals.
Avoid spicy, heavily seasoned foods.
To remedy morning sickness, try these suggestions:
Sip soda water (carbonated water) when you begin to feel nauseated.
Get fresh air – take a walk – sleep with a window open – use an exhaust fan or open window when you cook.
Take deep breaths.
Drink spearmint, raspberry leaf or peppermint tea.
Try antacids such as Mylanta, Maalox, or Riopan Plus.
Stretch Marks
They are a result of a breakdown in the lower, less elastic layer of skin. They are also a result of hereditary tendencies.
Relief Measures: Commonly appear on the lower abdomen, breasts, thighs, and buttocks.
Massaging with lotion will reduce the dryness and itching associated with stretching.
Stretch marks fade after the pregnancy, but can’t be prevented.
Travel
You may travel long distances by car or plane up to 32 weeks of your pregnancy, unless otherwise instructed by the medical staff. Be sure to take frequent rest stops.